Air India expands flight schedules and increases pilot salaries

Air India is implementing significant operational and structural changes. Starting September 1, the airline will resume many previously reduced domestic and international flight services that were cut earlier this year due to high fuel prices. The airline plans to increase flight frequency to several international destinations, including Frankfurt, Zurich, Vienna, Melbourne, Tokyo, and New York.

In addition to schedule adjustments, Air India and its low-cost subsidiary, Air India Express, have announced pilot salary increases ranging from 9% to 15%, effective October. This move aims to retain experienced flight crews amidst aggressive recruitment efforts from Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad.

To support fleet integration at Air India Express, the company has also introduced one-time transfer allowances between INR 10 lakh and INR 21 lakh for pilots transitioning to the subsidiary. These developments coincide with the Tata Group's ongoing expansion of the airline's combined fleet.